Do You Wear Leis at Graduation? Tradition, Meaning & Etiquette

Every May and June, thousands of graduates walk across the stage with a bright braided ribbon lei around their neck. If you're wondering do you wear leis at graduation — the short answer is yes, and it's one of the most popular graduation accessories in the US. Here's the tradition behind it and how to wear it right.

What Do Leis Mean at Graduation?

A lei is a garland of braided ribbon worn as a symbol of honor, celebration and love. The tradition comes from Hawaii, where giving a lei welcomes, honors and congratulates someone. At graduation, the lei says: you achieved something big, and we're proud of you.

Unlike honor cords (which mark academic achievement) or stoles (which mark membership), the lei is for everyone — it's pure celebration. That's why you'll see them on valedictorians and first-generation grads alike.

Do Guys Wear Leis for Graduation?

Yes — absolutely. Leis are not gendered. Male graduates wear them just as often, usually layered over the gown so the braided ribbon drapes over the shoulders. If you're styling ideas for guys, the classic look is a single lei in school colors worn over the gown, with the ends meeting at the center of the chest. Some add a second lei or a matching honor cord underneath.

How to Wear a Lei with Your Gown

• Put the lei over the gown, not under it — it should be the visible top layer.
• Center it so both ends hang evenly at mid-chest.
• Standard length is 120cm / 47in; it should sit below the collarbone, not choking.
• For hooded gowns or larger sizes, go up to 140cm.

When Should the Lei Go On?

Most graduates put the lei on before the ceremony and keep it on through photos. If you're walking on stage, check with your school — some prefer the lei off during the actual walk (to keep the gown clean for the hooding moment) and back on immediately after. Either way, it's the first thing family looks for in the crowd.

Can You Wear a Lei, Honor Cord and Stole Together?

Yes. The layering order is: stole closest to the collar, honor cord below it, and the lei on top as the outer celebration layer. If you want the full look in one purchase, our Graduation Lei Set (lei + honor cord + sash) is built exactly for that.

Where to Get Graduation Leis

You can buy ready-made graduation leis in 6 standard school color combos, match your school colors, or customize with your year and patches. Planning for a group? Check wholesale pricing — we're the factory, so class orders start at 1 dozen.